MLB insider proposes a Yankees’ prospect that could be part of a package for Arenado or Story

New York Yankees
Oct 16, 2017; Bronx, NY, USA; An view of the a field logo before game three of the 2017 ALCS playoff baseball series between the New York Yankees and the Houston Astros at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

After the New York Mets traded for Francisco Lindor and Carlos Carrasco on Thursday, they took a huge step towards real contention. The New York Yankees, though, are still in wait-and-see mode and are taking this slow this offseason, despite having several needs on their roster.

Signing a top free agent may be out of the question, but the trade market also has some stars that the Yankees may find appealing. Trevor Story and Nolan Arenado, a pair of Colorado Rockies’ infielders, are two of them.

To entertain a deal with the Rox for either player, the New York Yankees would need to compensate Colorado with prospects.

Per Jim Bowden of The Athletic, a Yankees’ shortstop prospect is not only among the most underrated in the game, but also, he can be used as a trade piece to lure the Rockies into trading Story or Arenado (as a part of a package.) His name is Anthony Volpe.

The Yankees have a promising project in Volpe

“Volpe can flat-out hit with a short, compact swing, loud sweet-spot contact, above-average exit velocity and the ability to hit line drives from foul pole to foul pole. He can hit high velocity, breaking balls and off-speed pitches as well as any teenager in the minor leagues. Defensively, he’s an above-average defender with plus range to both sides, soft hands, good first-step quickness and an average quick-release arm from the hole. He’s an above-average base runner and has a chance to be the next long-term shortstop for the Yankees. He could also end up being a top prospect included in a blockbuster trade for a star player like Trevor Story or Nolan Arenado if the Yankees decide to go that route,” Bowden wrote.

Volpe’s only professional experience with the Yankees came in Rookie ball in 2019. There, he slashed .215/.349/.355 with two homers, six steals, and a 102 wRC+.

Still 19 years old, he is at least two or three years away from being considered for a callup. He needs to see lots of minor league pitchers and grow as a hitter. But before the Yankees can entertain the idea of him helping the big club, he could be used as trade bait.